House Bill 172 could result in dangerous consequences

Dear Editor,

In the past 25-plus years working with kids in school athletics, I have learned something. NOTHING in this world brings out passion and emotion like a person’s child.

The only thing I have seen that comes close to the same level of emotion is sports. When you mix the two, kids and athletics, you get a recipe for high emotion and intense passion. I wouldn’t wish for anything different.

Sometimes, though, things do get heated when folks see things differently. When folks on the benches and in the stands don’t agree with an official’s call or coach’s decision, there is a boisterous outpouring of opinions on the matter. And occasionally, things really get heated, and ADs or principals have to speak with an irate fan. Again, with all that emotion and passion, it happens.

What concerns me is my understanding that House Bill 172 now has passed the House, and the Senate is considering adding something more to these emotional situations in our schools. Guns.

 I own guns, I shoot guns, and I love them. Handled correctly, they are an incredible tool and provide a lifetime of enjoyment and a way to protect oneself and their family. I have taught hunter education for several years, having certified hundreds of kids. I look forward to hunting season, and I know many people who carry, both with constitutional carry and with concealed carry permits. I support that.

What I need help understanding is how introducing and even inviting folks to carry concealed weapons at school events, including athletics, is good for kids and the community. I have seen perfectly rational and good people get carried away with their emotions and tell another normally rational person they are blind, stupid and a whole slew of other names, just because one person sees something differently. High School sports fans, think of scenes you have seen at games.

Now, HB172 has passed the House saying we want to add concealed carry to that mix? What’s more, an amendment to the bill (HB0172H3002) stating that kids who are 18-21 and are students in a public school would not be able to carry concealed weapons to school was defeated.

My understanding is that, with this bill, as passed, Wyoming state law will allow for that to happen. So, any concealed carry permit holder age 18 and up (with the passing of other current legislation), will be able to legally carry in all public schools, all the time.

I know I don’t understand everything, so please help me understand how this bill will improve our schools and help make our kids more safe without some dangerous, potentially tragic, consequences.

Richard Despain

26 years in education and coaching